Ripon has been awarded Gold at the 2025 Yorkshire in Bloom awards.
Ripon in Bloom took home Best in Category and a special Discretionary Judges’ Award for its interpretation of this year’s theme, “Dig for Victory.” The recognition highlights a city-wide effort led by Ripon in Bloom, whose volunteers contributed more than 150 hours over the past year. Their work included planting 20 barrier baskets and seven large floral containers, as well as maintaining key community spaces such as Temple Gardens, the Bike Planter, Courthouse Garden, and Bedern Bank. A wide range of local groups supported the initiative, including: Ripon City Council also provided grant support to help make the project possible. North Yorkshire Council was responsible for planting in the Market Square and at the Town Hall, as well as designing and maintaining planting schemes at Spa Gardens and the city’s roundabouts. Ripon BID provided funding for 67 hanging baskets, six barrier baskets, seven window boxes, and the Bike Planter, which brought additional colour to the city centre. Lilla Bathurst, Manager at Ripon BID, said: “I am thrilled for Ripon and its superb partnership working and cohesive community. "This award is a wonderful reflection of the teamwork and pride that make our city such a special place to live, work, and visit.” Chris Searle, Chairman of Ripon in Bloom, added: “We’re absolutely thrilled with this year’s results. "It’s a true community effort, and every volunteer, business, and resident who picked up a trowel or tidied a frontage has helped Ripon shine. "The judges were especially impressed with the teamwork and creativity shown across our city.” The judges also noted the contribution of local businesses who improved the appearance of areas outside their premises. Looking ahead, Ripon in Bloom hopes to retain Gold in 2026 and is calling for new volunteers to join its working parties. Anyone interested can get involved by contacting Ripon in Bloom via their Facebook group.
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